IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva made the announcement, commending Gourinchas for his “exceptional intellectual leadership” during a time characterized by post-pandemic recovery, rising global inflation, and increasing geopolitical tensions. She emphasized his contribution to maintaining the Fund’s analysis as rigorous and relevant for member countries.
Since his arrival in 2022, Gourinchas has guided the Research Department through a turbulent global landscape, providing policy-oriented analysis and upholding high standards in flagship publications like the World Economic Outlook and the External Sector Report. His efforts enhanced the IMF’s capacity to assess global spillovers, risks, and policy trade-offs.
Under his direction, the department progressed research on geo-economic fragmentation, the factors driving global inflation, and existing imbalances. He also championed innovation through initiatives such as the AI Preparedness Index, Structural Reforms Impact Tool, and RES DataHub, along with efforts to develop next-generation macroeconomic models.
Gourinchas served a crucial advisory role in IMF surveillance and program work, ensuring that policy guidance remained both analytically robust and practically effective. His recent analyses regarding alternative economic scenarios related to the Middle East conflict contributed to discussions during the Spring Meetings.
Georgieva also acknowledged his dedication to staff development and inclusive leadership, pointing out his initiatives to promote collaboration and foster intellectual curiosity within the department.
His tenure is often linked to the enhancement of analytical capabilities during challenging times.
The IMF expressed appreciation for his service and wished him success in returning to academia.
